DPP seeks to withdraw charges against 13 people linked to Ksh.122M theft from Gov't Advertising Agency

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has applied to withdraw charges against 13 people implicated in the theft of Ksh.122 million from the Government Advertising Agency (GAA).

The 13 accused persons are Ishiundu Itemere, Edith Kinda, Amos Matanga, Gladys Bwora, Gladys Isaka, Agren Jessica Ateko, Rachel Wanjiru, Nelly Nachomba, Sammy Makau, Martin Njoroge, Hannah Wangari, Edmond Njenga and Victor Owino.

They have been charged alongside Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula.

During the mention of the case on Tuesday, the court was told that the case against the remaining accused persons will proceed to a logical conclusion.

The DPP further requested for two weeks to amend the charge sheet against the remaining accused persons.

The court will give its ruling on the application to withdraw charges against the 13 persons on February 8.

In the case, Savula is accused of stealing Ksh.122 million from the Government Advertising Agency (GAA). He, along with former ICT Principal Secretary Sammy Itemere, is accused of stealing money meant for paying pending bills to advertisers.

Last year, the DPP through the prosecutor stated that some of the accused in the case had written to the his office requesting a review of the charges.

After reviewing the request, the DPP noted that there is new and compelling evidence that is material to the case.

“The new information is significant and is likely to affect the cause of this hearing and it's on this basis that we ask this court to grant us two weeks to consult with the accused persons' advocates,” the court heard.